Are you craving a comforting, flavorful dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this delightful tomato pie! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend brunch, or even a casual gathering with friends. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a delicious masterpiece. This easy recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, making it a winner for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends. Get ready to experience the joy of creating this healthy meal!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous cooking session.
- 1 box (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups fresh tomatoes, sliced (about 2 pounds)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Simple Guide to Tomato Pie Perfection
Let's embark on this culinary journey together, one easy step at a time!
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unroll one pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges. This is a great opportunity to get creative with your crust!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the wonderful base flavor of our pie.
Step 3: Layer the Tomatoes
Arrange the sliced tomatoes over the pie crust. Season generously with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Add the Sautéed Mixture
Evenly distribute the sautéed onion and garlic mixture over the tomatoes.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Cheese
Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set and makes for easier serving.
Cooking Tips for Tomato Pie Success
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of cherry and Roma tomatoes.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, pre-bake it for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Italian seasoning or thyme would be delicious additions.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations: Beyond the Classic Recipe
This tomato pie recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- Add some spice: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Meat Lovers Delight: Crumble some cooked sausage or bacon into the filling for a heartier pie.
- Vegetarian Twist: Add sauteed zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms alongside the onions and garlic.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate)
This recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal, packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the tomatoes. Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Fat: Approximately 15g
- Protein: Approximately 10g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30g
This tomato pie is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade cooking and the satisfying taste of this delicious dish!